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Gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) significantly, negatively impact livestock worldwide, and their control depends on the use of chemotherapy drugs. However, this approach is unsustainable as anthelmintic resistance (AR) is growing widespread. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the historical and current data published on AR in domestic ruminants in Brazil. Alternative measures of GIN control have been discussed to provide helpful information to prevent the development of AR in the country. This review consisted of a search of technical and scientific publications between January 1960 to January 2023, using online sources such as PubMed, Scielo and Google Scholar. Eighty-three articles published over the last six decades reporting AR in sheep (n = 43), goats (n = 20) and cattle (n = 20) were included. A total of 37.3%, 25.4% and 37.3% evaluated one, two and three or more molecule classes, respectively. Among all studies, 82.1% used fecal egg count reduction test as a method of AR diagnosis. In conclusion, AR is an urgent and emerging issue for ruminant production in Brazil. It is necessary to evaluate on a large scale the distribution and management of anthelmintic drugs and discuss strategies that delay this phenomenon’s development.

Abstract Canine visceral leishmaniasis is a disease caused by the protozoon Leishmania infantum, an important agent of zoonotic concern. In this study we determined the seroprevalence, risk factors and spatial distribution of infection by L. infantum among dogs in the Pajeú microregion of the Sertão region of Pernambuco, Brazil. Canine serum samples (n = 247) were tested using the Dual Path Platform (DPP®) rapid screening test and ELISA/S7® confirmatory test; and risk factors were assessed through univariate analysis and logistical regression. The spatial distribution of reactive dogs was analyzed by drawing a map using QGIS. Seroprevalence of 13.7% (34/247) was detected, with cases predominating in the municipality of Tabira (26.4%; 9/34). Age above 10 years was considered to be a risk factor associated with the presence of anti-L. infantum antibodies. The high overall prevalence and spatial distribution of positive cases showed wide dispersion of reagents dogs in the study area. Therefore, preventive measures are needed in order to reduce the risk of infection for animals and humans.

Abstract This purpose of this study was to compare the efficiency of the McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC quantitative techniques in the investigation of helminths in feces of pigs. An analysis was made of 74 fecal samples from pigs raised on family farms located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. These were analyzed by the Mini-FLOTAC and McMaster techniques in a solution of 1,200g/mL NaCl. This investigation revealed a superiority in the frequency of all helminths detected by Mini-FLOTAC, including Ascaris suum, Trichuris suis, strongyles and Strongyloides ransomi. The Kappa index revealed substantial agreement in all comparisons made in relation to the frequency of positive samples. However, significant statistical differences in the comparison of EPGs between McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC were observed for all nematodes (p ≤0.05). Higher values of Pearson’s linear correlation coefficient (r), between the techniques in relation to EPG were observed for A. suum and T. suis, differently from what was observed for strongyles and S. ransomi. Mini-FLOTAC proved to be a more satisfactory and reliable technique both for the diagnosis of parasites and for the determination of EPG in pig feces due to the larger size of its counting chambers, thus increasing the helminth egg recovery rates.

Heartworm (HTW) infection in cats is associated with persistent pulmonary pathology, even when clinical signs are absent. Treatment options for cats are limited once infected, making prevention an important topic for discussion with cat owners. In Brazil, tests to detect feline HTW infections are unavailable, likely leading to an underestimation of its impact on the wellbeing of cats. The present study investigated the seroprevalence of HTW antigen in cats living in an area with high canine HTW prevalence and investigated risk factors and clinical signs associated with HTW disease in cats from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Clinical examinations were conducted, and serological evaluations performed with a point-of-care test (SNAP® Feline Triple® Test, IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.). A total of 586 cats were examined. The HTW antigen seroprevalence was 1.2%. Heartworm positive results were significantly associated with vomiting and abnormal lung sounds. Results from this study indicate that cats residing in areas of high canine HTW prevalence should have HTW disease as a differential diagnosis when presenting with compatible clinical signs. Veterinarians should prioritize client education and promote regular use of effective prophylaxis to protect feline health.

The aim of the present study is to apply the canine olfactory sensitivity to detect COVID-19-positive axillary sweat samples as a One Health approach in Latin America. One hundred volunteers with COVID-like symptoms were invited to participate, and both axillary sweat samples for dog detection and nasopharynx/oropharynx swabs for qPCR were collected. Two dogs, previously trained, detected 97.4% of the samples positive for COVID-19, including a false-negative qPCR-test, and the positive predictive value was 100% and the negative predictive value was 98.2%. Therefore, we can conclude that canine olfactory sensitivity can detect a person infected with COVID-19 through axillary sweat successfully and could be used as an alternative to screen them without invasive testing.

The proper diagnosis of gastrointestinal parasites of small ruminants requires the development of multivalent techniques characterized by high sensitivity, specificity, precision, reproducibility, and the ability to quickly detect and monitor infections that pose risks to animal health. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of Mini-FLOTAC technique and McMaster egg counting (gold standard) in the detection of gastrointestinal parasites of goats and sheep. A total of 789 fecal samples were analyzed (401 of sheep and 388 of goats). From those, nematode eggs were detected in 80.86% (638/789), being 72.57% (291/401) from sheep and 89.43% (347/388) from goats. The Mini-FLOTAC technique presented a better performance to detect helminth eggs in both goats (88.40%; 343/388) and sheep (71.57%; 287/401) (?2 = 10.358; p < 0.0001). Kappa analysis revealed a weak concordance between techniques for goats (k = 0.342; p < 0.001) and sheep (k = 0.281; p < 0.001). Data herein reported suggests that the Mini-FLOTAC is a technique more sensitive than the McMaster egg counting, therefore its use might be adopted for the diagnosis of gastrointestinal infection in small ruminants.

Among the gastrointestinal parasites of dogs that present public health importance, the species of the genus Ancylostoma and Toxocara are the most frequently detected, and have been important cause of soil contamination. The aim of this study was to detect gastrointestinal parasites in dog’s feces collected in households, streets and public squares of the city of Garanhuns, Pernambuco, Brazil. Fecal samples (n = 640) were collected in the environment and evaluated by parasitological methods of Willis-Mollay and Hoffman, Pons and Janer. Out of all samples, 51.09% (327/640) were positive for gastrointestinal parasites. In particular, in 70.94% (232/327) of the samples were detected eggs of Ancylostoma spp., and in 11.01% (36/327) coinfection by Ancylostoma spp. and Toxocara canis. In conclusion, the presence of eggs of zoonotic parasites in feces collected from the environment in the city of Garanhuns represent a risk for the transmission of Cutaneous Larva Migrans and Visceral Larva Migrans for the human population.

A survey was carried out to detect American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) among dogs in an area where a human outbreak had occurred in the state of Pernambuco, in northeastern Brazil. Domiciled dogs living in the district of Três Ladeiras, Igarassu were used in the present study. The following procedures were performed: The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) (n = 126); the Immunofluorescence Antibody Test (IFAT) (n = 80); and a parasitological examination to detect amastigote forms of Leishmania sp. in skin lesions (n = 43). Associations between the infection in animals and the clinical and epidemiological factors were analyzed using Fisher's exact test or the Pearson’s chi-squared test. In total, 46.8% (59/126) of the samples tested were PCRpositive. Although a higher frequency of positivity was detected among males (46.3 %) and animals aged between 3 and 4 years (50.0 %), no significant associations were recorded for these variables (p> 0.05). Similarly, the clinical signs and aspects related to the environment in which the animal lives did not differ significantly, but differences were recorded for the variable locality. In the IFAT, only 6.2% (5/80) of the dogs were positive and no amastigote forms of Leishmania sp. were detected.

Abstract Background In Brazil, studies on animals and humans in mainland areas have shown that most strains of Toxoplasma gondii are pathogenic to mice and exhibit great genetic variability. Results In this study, using a set of 11 PCR-RFLP and 15 microsatellite markers, we isolated and genetically characterised T. gondii strains from one cat and three rats on Fernando de Noronha Island. The cat had antibodies to T. gondii, which were revealed using a modified agglutination test (MAT, cut-off 1:25) and the seroprevalence among the 46 rodents was 15.2%. Viable T. gondii was isolated from one cat (TgCatBrFN1), two brown rats (TgRatnoBrFN1 and TgRatnoBrFN2) and one black rat (TgRatraBrFN1). Unlike the strains from mainland Brazil, these isolates were not pathogenic to outbred mice. The genotypes of these strains were compared with strains previously isolated on the island and in mainland Brazil. The analysis based on microsatellite data showed a limited genetic diversity of T. gondii on Fernando de Noronha Island with the majority of strains clustered into the following three groups: type II, III, and Caribbean 1. Conclusions There was little variation among strains within the same group, suggesting that the majority of strains circulating on Fernando de Noronha are derived from only a few strains that were recently introduced to the island, likely from imported cats. Except for the strain belonging to the Caribbean 1 group that originates from northeast Brazil, there was little evidence that strains from the other groups were introduced to Fernando de Noronha via mainland Brazil.

The increase of canine population in urban areas, which englobes stray or domiciled dogs, has an important epidemiological role in soil contamination of public areas. This increase contributes for the dissemination of infections by parasites via faeces of infected animals. The aim of this study was to detect the presence of immature forms of gastrointestinal parasites of mammals in soil from public roads and squares of the municipality of Garanhuns, state of Pernambuco, Brazil. A total of 211 soil samples were obtained and evaluated through the Faust and Rugai techniques. Out of 211 soil samples, 49.29% (104/211) scored positive the presence of immature forms of gastrointestinal parasites of mammals, being Ancylostoma sp. (37.91%) the most frequent. In conclusion, the soil of different parts of the municipality of Garanhuns is contamined by parasites of medical and veterinary concern. Therefore, the implementing of integrated prophylaxis measures is necessary to prevent the soil contamination, reducing the risk of infection for humans.

Abstract INTRODUCTION: The present study aimed to assess the seroprevalence and spatial distribution of Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii in dogs. METHODS: Blood samples (n = 241) were collected and analyzed for the presence of anti-N. caninum and anti-T. gondii antibodies. The spatial distribution was evaluated using kernel density estimation (KDE). RESULTS Anti-N. caninum and anti-T. gondii antibodies were detected in 24.06% (58/241) and 9.54% (23/241) of samples, respectively. A heterogeneous spatial distribution of positive dogs was observed across the city. CONCLUSIONS These data are pivotal for better understanding the dynamics of infection caused by these protozoa in the canine population.

The genus Cryptosporidium consists of protozoa with large reproduction and dissemination capacity. Transmission can occur indirectly by ingestion of water contaminated with viable oocysts or directly between animals, between humans, or between animals and human. In various parts of the world, pets have been cited as potential sources of infection by Cryptosporidium spp. The present study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of natural Cryptosporidium spp. infection in domestic dogs in the city of Recife, Pernambuco State, Brazil, as well as the association of the infection with epidemiological and sanitary data. Stool samples from 97 dogs were analyzed using the techniques of centrifugal sedimentation in formalin-ether with subsequent staining by Kinyoun method. Statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square test of Pearson and Fisher Exact test, with significance level of 5.0%. Positivity was detected in 31.9% (31/97) of samples. It was the first record of infection by Cryptosporidium spp. in dogs from northeastern Brazil. We verified significant association between the rate of infection and veterinary medical care, vaccination, and type of environment in which the dogs were kept. Keywords: canine; cryptosporidiosis; epidemiology; zoonosis.

ABSTRACT: Canine visceral leishmaniasisis an important disease caused by the protozoon Leishmania infantum which affects several organs and systems, including the genital tract. The L. infantum tropism to the male genital system and correlation among parasite load, immunohistochemistry detection and structural changes in these organs is controversy. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate this correlation in the genital organs of the male dogs naturally infected with L. infantum. Samples from testicles, epididymis, prostate, glans penis, prepuce and scrotum were collected from 19 positive adult dogs. Structural changes were observed in the testicles (5.2%), epididymis (2.6%), prepuce (5.2%) and scrotum (5.2%) of the samples positive at immunohistochemistry examination. Conversely, similar structural changes were observed in all tissues negative at immunohistochemistry analysis. Moreover, L. infantum DNA was detected in all organs with the highest parasite load found in testicles, epididymis, and prostate gland. , Testicles had the highest parasite load but the lowest number of inflammatory lesions. These inflammatory lesions were observed in all organs of reproductive system of dogs; however, no correlation was observed between the parasite load and inflammatory lesions of dogs naturally infected with L. infantum.

Abstract The skin is the site of inoculation of Leishmania spp. in susceptible hosts, and consequently dermatopathies, especially ulcerative dermatitis, are the main clinical signs observed. The aim of this study was to assess parasitism of the skin (intact and ulcerated) among dogs that were naturally infected by Leishmania spp., through immunohistochemical analysis. Skin fragments (intact and ulcerated) were collected from 13 dogs with positive parasitological (bone marrow aspiration and exfoliative skin) and serological examinations (ELISA S7® Biogene) forLeishmania spp. These samples were processed using the immunohistochemical technique, involving the streptavidin-peroxidase complex. Ulcerative lesions were mainly observed on the elbows (53.84%; 7/13), nostrils (15.38%; 2/13), ears (23.07%; 3/13) and wings of the ilium (7.69%; 1/13). A severe parasite load was detected in 46.15% and 76.92% of the intact and ulcerated skin samples tested, respectively. The parasite load on ulcerated skin was statistically higher than on intact skin (p = 0.0221). These results indicate that the intact and ulcerated skin may host a high parasite load of amastigote forms of Leishmania spp., which can favor the transmission of the parasite.

ABSTRACT Spotted fevers are diseases caused by bacterial agents belonging to the spotted-fever (SF) group of the genus Rickettsia. The first documented case of SF in Pernambuco State, Northeast Brazil, was reported here. Also, it is the first case described of fatal SF in Northeast region of Brazil. The patient was a resident of Arcoverde municipality and the probable site of infection lies in Sertania municipality, both in Pernambuco State, a semi-arid region of Brazil. The patient had not visited other areas where SF is endemic. The patient showed clinical manifestations and epidemiological exposure compatible with SF, and the infection was confirmed by molecular biology techniques.

Background: Dirofilaria immitis is an important filarioid transmitted by culicids. The vector role of these arthropods may be influenced by biological events as melanization against D. immitis larvae. This study aimed to detect the occurrence of melanization in Culex quinquefasciatus, Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti and Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus experimentally infected with D. immitis. Methods: Five populations (Cx. quinquefasciatus RECIFE (P1), Ae. albopictus RECIFE (P2), Ae. aegypti RECIFE (P3), Ae. aegypti CAMPINAS (P4) and Ae. aegypti ROCKEFELLER (P5)) were artificially fed with infected blood containing D. immitis microfilariae. Ten mosquitoes per day from each population were dissected for 14 days. Results: Melanized larvae of D. immitis were observed in all population except in P3. The period in which melanized larvae were found varied from the third to the 14th day post-infection. Difference in the number of these larvae was observed between P5 and P2–P3 (P< 0.01), and between P5 and P4 (P< 0.05). Third-stage larvae of D. immitis were detected in all population 14 d post-infection, except in P3, which presented high mortality 24 h post-infection. The melanization observed in the populations herein studied did not indicate refractory since third-stage larvae were observed at the end of the experiment. Most likely, this immune response aimed to control the number of larvae, in order to maintain the equilibrium between vector-parasite. Conclusion: The melanization did not seem to be a limiting factor to the development of this filarioid in these local Brazilian Culicidae populations.

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a chronic disease caused by Leishmania infantum. The major sites of parasite localization in infected animals are the secondary lymphoid organs, bone marrow and cutaneous tissue. However, reports exist on the detection of the parasite in the organs of the male and female genital system. The main route of transmission is related to the hematophagous sandfly vectors of the genus Lutzomyia(New World) and Phlebotomus(Old World). However, other routes of transmission may be mentioned, such as sexual, vertical, hematogenic without vector and others involved in VL epidemiology. Thus, the current article reviews the main forms of transmission of visceral leishmaniasis in mammals

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: The prevalence of infection by Toxoplasma gondii and associated risk factors in pregnant women in Tocantins, Northern Brazil were assessed. METHODS: Serological analysis was performed in 338 serum samples and an oral questionnaire was utilized to identify potential risk factors. RESULTS: Anti-IgG antibodies against T. gondii were detected in 71% (240/338) of the pregnant women. Prior contact with cats and meat handling were found to be associated with T. gondii infection. CONCLUSIONS: A considerable percentage (29%) of women living in the Tocantins area remain susceptible to infection by the T. gondii protozoon, representing a serious public health risk.

Abstract Gastrointestinal parasites are important pathogens affecting animals, some of them are of medical and veterinary concern. Although the dynamic of parasitic infections is a complex phenomenon that has been studied under experimental conditions, it shows several gaps in knowledge, especially in insular regions where a confined population of animals and parasites co-exists. In this study was assessed the parasitism by endoparasite gastrointestinal in feral cats (n = 37) and rodents (n = 30) from the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago; in addition, the risk of human infection and ecological implications of these findings were discussed. Out of all samples analysed, 100% scored positive for the presence of gastrointestinal parasites in both feral cats and rodents. A total 17 genera and/or species of endoparasite gastrointestinal were identified, Ancylostoma sp., Strongyloides sp., Trichuris campanula and Toxocara cati were the parasites more frequently in feral cats. In rodents Eimeria sp., Strongyloides sp. and Trichuris muris were parasites more frequently herein detected. Human population living in this area are at risk of parasite infections due to the population of rodents and feral cats in the archipelago.

Abstract Trypanosoma (Duttonella) vivax is an important cause of economic losses among feedlot cattle. These losses are related to the morbidity, mortality, reproductive issues and decreased production. It is known that the clinical signs observed in infections by this protozoon are similar to other hemoparasitosis, which difficult the diagnosis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to detect and molecularly characterize an outbreak of trypanosomiasis caused by T. (D.) vivax in dairy cattle in the municipality of São Miguel Aleixo, state of Sergipe, Brazil. Blood samples from cattle (n = 15) presenting clinical signs compatible with trypanosomiasis were collected and parasitological and molecular evaluated. Among the samples analyzed, 34% (5/15) were positive from blood smears, 60% (9/15) from the buffy coat method and 80% (12/15) from the molecular method. The DNA sequence obtained (659 bp) showed 99% similarity to T. (D.) vivax sequences that are available in the GenBank database. The presence of this protozoon in cattle herds is a problem for producers. Diagnosing trypanosomiasis is problematic because its evolution is similar to that of other parasitic blood diseases. In addition, this is the first report of infection by T. (D.) vivax in cattle in the state of Sergipe, northeastern Brazil.

Objetivou-se avaliar o aprendizado de professores da disciplina Ciências da Natureza de escolas próximas à Estação Ecológica de Caetés, agentes comunitários de saúde (ACS) e de agentes de combate a endemias (ACE) dos municípios de Abreu e Lima e Paulista, PE, com relação às zoonoses leptospirose, toxoplasmose, raiva e leishmanioses. No primeiro momento foi aplicado um questionário sobre as doenças, tocante ao conceito de zoonoses e sua cadeia epidemiológica. Após as ações de Educação e Saúde foi feito um segundo questionário para verificar o aumento do nível de conhecimento dos participantes. No primeiro questionário cada participante em média, acertou 13 questões a mais do que errou e esta média aumentou para 27 questões mais certas do que erradas no segundo questionário. Em geral, os ACS, ACE e professores possuíam um bom domínio de zoonoses comuns ao seu cotidiano, seja nas campanhas de saúde, ou citadas nas mídias e presentes em meio urbano, como a leptospirose e a raiva. No entanto, em relação às zoonoses negligenciadas como a toxoplasmose e as leishmanioses, os participantes possuíam um nível de conhecimento insuficiente, levando em consideração seu papel de educador. O conhecimento da cadeia epidemiológica da raiva e da leptospirose foi maior do que a toxoplasmose e as leishmanioses. Este trabalho representou a primeira descrição de atividades de educação em saúde sobre zoonoses para ACS, ACE e professores de escolas no entorno de uma Unidade de Conservação no nordeste do Brasil.

Abstract Phlebotomines have worldwide distribution with many species present in Brazil, including the northeastern region, where the fauna is very diverse. The aim of this study was to identify the sandfly fauna in an area endemic for American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) in the state of Pernambuco. Sandflies were caught on three consecutive nights every month from October 2015 to September 2016, from 5 pm to 5 am, using seven light traps of Centers for Disease Control (CDC) type. Females were identified and used for molecular Leishmania detection. A total of 2,174 specimens belonging to ten species were collected: Lutzomyia choti (88.2%; 1,917/2,174) was the most abundant species, followed by Lutzomyia whitmani (8.1%; 176/2,174) and Lutzomyia sordellii (1.5%; 33/2,174). The majority of the specimens were collected in peridomestic areas (64.1%; 1,394/2,174) and during the rainy period. All the samples examined were negative for Leishmania spp. The presence of Lutzomyia whitmani indoors and in peridomestic areas indicates that the inhabitants of this area are exposed to the risk of infection by the parasites responsible for ACL.

Abstract Background Canine heartworm infections were frequently diagnosed in Brazil before the new millennium. After the year 2000, the frequency of diagnosis showed a sharp decline; however, a few years later, new evidence indicated that the parasite was still present and that canine infection rates seemed to be increasing. Therefore, an updated survey of canine heartworm prevalence was conducted in several locations in south, southeast, and northeast Brazil. Methods Dogs from 15 locations having previously reported a high prevalence of heartworm infection were included in the survey according to defined criteria, including the absence of treatment with a macrocyclic lactone for at least 1 year. Blood samples from 1531 dogs were evaluated by an in-clinic immunochromatography test kit (Witness® Heartworm, Zoetis, USA) for detection of Dirofilaria immitis antigen. At each location, epidemiologic data, including physical characteristics and clinical signs reported by owners or observed by veterinarians, were recorded on prepared forms for tabulation of results by location, clinical signs, and physical characteristics. Results The overall prevalence of canine heartworm infection was 23.1%, with evidence of heartworm-infected dogs detected in all 15 locations studied. There was a tendency for higher prevalence rates in environmentally protected areas, despite some locations having less-than-ideal environmental temperatures for survival of vector mosquitoes. Among physical characteristics, it was noted that dogs with predominantly white hair coats and residing in areas with a high (≥20%) prevalence of heartworm were less likely to have heartworm infection detected by a commercial heartworm antigen test kit than were dogs with other coat colors. In general, dogs older than 2 years were more frequently positive for D. immitis antigen than were younger dogs. Clinical signs of heartworm infections were rare or owners were unable to detect them, and could not be used for reliable prediction of the presence of heartworm. Conclusions These results indicate that the prevalence of D. immitis has increased in these areas of Brazil over the past few years. Small animal practitioners in these areas should include routine screening tests for heartworm infections in every dog’s annual evaluation protocol and make sure to have uninfected dogs on prevention.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the larvicidal activity of Azadirachta indica, Melaleuca alternifolia, carapa guianensis essential oils and fermented extract of Carica papaya against Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762) (Diptera: Culicidae). METHODS The larvicide test was performed in triplicate with 300 larvae for each experimental group using the third larval stage, which were exposed for 24h. The groups were: positive control with industrial larvicide (BTI) in concentrations of 0.37 ppm (PC1) and 0.06 ppm (PC2); treated with compounds of essential oils and fermented extract, 50.0% concentration (G1); treated with compounds of essential oils and fermented extract, 25.0% concentration (G2); treated with compounds of essential oils and fermented extract, 12.5% concentration (G3); and negative control group using water (NC1) and using dimethyl (NC2). The larvae were monitored every 60 min using direct visualization. RESULTS No mortality occurred in experimental groups NC1 and NC2 in the 24h exposure period, whereas there was 100% mortality in the PC1 and PC2 groups compared to NC1 and NC2. Mortality rates of 65.0%, 50.0% and 78.0% were observed in the groups G1, G2 and G3 respectively, compared with NC1 and NC2. CONCLUSIONS The association between three essential oils from Azadirachta indica, Melaleuca alternifolia, Carapa guianensis and fermented extract of Carica papaya was efficient at all concentrations. Therefore, it can be used in Aedes aegypti Liverpool third larvae stage control programs.

This study aimed to identify the species of fleas and ticks of Cerdocyon thous from the state of Pernambuco. Animals (n = 20) were examined, with 30% (6/20) ectoparasitized. Fleas (n = 16) and ticks (n = 17) parasitizing free-living crab-eating fox and captive in state of Pernambuco were collected. The fleas were identified as: Pulex irritans and Ctenocephalides felis; and the ticks were: Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato and Amblyomma ovale. The presence of ectoparasites of domestic animals parasitizing C. thous, suggests a close contact of this species to the peridomicile. Furthermore, this is the first report of the occurrence of A. ovale in C. thous in northeastern Brazil.

Trypanosoma vivax infecta uma grande variedade de animais ungulados selvagens e domésticos, podendo causar grande impacto na produção de ruminantes. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a detecção de anticorpos IgG anti-Trypanosoma vivax em bovinos provenientes do estado de Pernambuco, Brasil. Para tanto, foram analisadas 2,053 amostras de soro sanguíneo de bovinos provenientes de rebanhos de municípios do estado de Pernambuco, os quais foram analisados através da Reação de Imunofluorescência Indireta. Das amostras testadas 13,93% (286/2.053) foram reagentes para anticorpos IgG anti-Trypanosoma vivax. As freqüências, por mesorregião, variaram de 11,90% a 15,99%. Assim, os dados obtidos permitiram a caracterização do estado de Pernambuco como uma área de instabilidade enzoótica e sugere que o estado Pernambuco é área endêmica para Trypanosoma vivax e este parasito está distribuído por todo o estado.

O gênero Cryptosporidium é composto por protozoários com grande capacidade de reprodução e disseminação. Sua transmissão pode ocorrer indiretamente pela ingestão de água e alimentos contaminados com oocistos viáveis ou diretamente entre animais, entre humanos ou entre animais e humanos. Em diversas partes do mundo, animais de companhia tem sido citados como fontes potenciais de infecção por Cryptosporidium spp. O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a ocorrência da infecção por Cryptosporidium spp. em cães domiciliados na cidade do Recife, estado de Pernambuco, Brasil, bem como a associação da infecção com dados epidemiológicos e sanitários. Foram analisadas 97 amostras de fezes de caninos domiciliados, utilizando-se as técnicas de centrífugo-sedimentação em formol-éter com posterior coloração pelo método de Kinyoun. A análise estatística foi realizada por meio dos testes Qui-quadrado de Pearson e Exato de Fisher, com nível de significância de 5,0%. Detectou-se positividade de 31,9% (31/97), tratando-se do primeiro registro de ocorrência da infecção por Cryptosporidium spp. na espécie canina no nordeste brasileiro, verificando-se associação significativa entre a taxa de infecção e a assistência médica veterinária, vacinação recebida e o tipo de ambiente de criação dos cães. Palavras-chave: caninos; criptosporidiose; epidemiologia; zoonose.

ABSTRACT: The Rhipicephalus (Boophilus )microplus is an important tick species which affect bovines in tropical areas. Its control is based on the use of chemical acaricides, but the frequent use of these substances has been conducted to the development of tick resistance. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of cypermethrin and amitraz against R. (B. )microplus collected of bovines from different municipalities of the state of Pernambuco. From August 2009 to July 2011, engorged females were collected and subjected to the "Adult Immersion Test" in order to evaluate the efficacy of cypermethrin and amitraz. The results indicate that populations of R. (B. )microplus from Pernambuco present resistance to acaricides (i.e., cypermethrin and amitraz). In this study, a single population (Brejo da Madre de Deus) was susceptible to cypermethrin, whereas two (Timbaúba and Limoeiro) were susceptible to amitraz. Data herein reported follow a pattern observed in other regions of Brazil and alert to the fact that alternative measures of control should be implemented in this area studied.

Abstract Gastrointestinal helminths are considered to be the most common parasites affecting cats worldwide. Correct diagnosis of these parasites in animals living in urban areas is pivotal, especially considering the zoonotic potential of some species (e.g. Ancylostoma sp. and Toxocarasp.). In this study, a copromicroscopic survey was conducted using fecal samples (n = 173) from domestic cats living in the northeastern region of Brazil. Samples were examined through the FLOTAC technique and the overall results showed positivity of 65.31% (113/173) among the samples analyzed. Coinfections were observed in 46.01% (52/113) of the positive samples. The most common parasites detected were Ancylostoma sp., Toxocara cati, Strongyloides stercoralis,Trichuris sp., Dipylidium caninum andCystoisospora sp. From an epidemiological point of view, these findings are important, especially considering that zoonotic parasites (e.g. Ancylostoma sp. and Toxocara sp.) were the nematodes most frequently diagnosed in this study. Therefore, the human population living in close contact with cats is at risk of infection caused by the zoonotic helminths of these animals. In addition, for the first time the FLOTAC has been used to diagnosing gastrointestinal parasites of cats in Brazil.

A leishmaniose visceral canina (LVC) é uma doença parasitária crônica causada por protozoários pertencentes ao gênero Leishmania. No Brasil, a transmissão se dá, principalmente, pela ação hematófaga de insetos vetores pertencentes à subfamília Phlebotominae, particularmente, a espécie Lutzomyia longipalpis. Todavia, a trasmissão vertical e venérea da LVC está presente. Os principais sinais clínicos observados nos animais acometidos pela LVC são linfoadenomegalia, dermatopatias, hepatoesplenomegalia, onicogrifose e oftalmopatias, contudo quadros atípicos podem ser observados, inclusive com o envolvimento do sistema genital. Dessa forma, o objetivo deste artigo é realizar revisão sobre as principais patologias genitais em cães machos e fêmeas com leishmaniose visceral (LV).The canine visceral leishmaniasis (CanL) is a chronic parasitic disease caused by protozoa belonging to the genus Leishmania. In Brazil, the transmission occurs mainly by the action of blood-sucking insects belonging to the subfamily Phlebotominae, particularly the Lutzomyia longipalpis species. However, the venereal and vertical transmission of the CanL is present. The main clinical signs observed in animals affected by the CanL are lymphadenopathy, skin diseases, hepatosplenomegaly, onychogryphosis and ophthalmopathy, however atypical manifestations can be observed, including the involvement of the genital system. Thus, the aim of this paper is to review on the major pathologies in genital male and female dogs with visceral leishmaniasis (VL).

The importance of dogs as a reservoir for Leishmania infantumchagasi in urban environments has stimulated numerous studies assessing diagnostic techniques. When performed properly, such procedures are an important step in preventing leishmaniasis in humans. Molecular methods have become prominent for this purpose. The aim of the present study was to determine the performance of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real-time PCR (qPCR) for diagnosing of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) using different biological samples. For this, 35 dogs from an area endemic for CVL were used. Bone marrow aspirate and lymph node and spleen fragments from these dogs were used for the molecular diagnosis. In the present study, qPCR was able to detect a greater number of positive animals than seen with PCR. Among the different biological samples used, there was no significant difference in L. infantumchagasi DNA detection between PCR and qPCR. However, considering that lymph nodes are easy to acquire, these can be considered to be the best samples for making molecular diagnoses of L. infantum chagasi infection.A importância do cão como reservatório de L. infantum chagasi no meio urbano tem estimulado a realização de inúmeros trabalhos de avaliação de técnicas de diagnóstico, uma vez que este procedimento, quando realizado corretamente, torna-se um importante passo na prevenção da doença em humanos. Dentre os métodos de diagnóstico, as técnicas moleculares têm adquirido destaque. Objetivou-se neste trabalho verificar o desempenho da Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR) e da PCR em tempo real (qPCR) para diagnóstico da Leishmaniose Visceral Canina (LVC) utilizando diferentes amostras biológicas. Para tanto foram utilizados 35 cães provenientes de uma área endêmica para LVC, onde foram utilizados para o diagnóstico molecular, aspirado de medula óssea, fragmentos de linfonodo e baço. Neste estudo a qPCR foi capaz de detectar um maior número de animais positivos quando comparada com a PCR. Já entre as diferentes amostras biológicas utilizadas não foi observada diferença significativa na detecção de DNA de L. infantumchagasi por meio da PCR e qPCR. Mesmo assim, considerando a facilidade de obtenção, o linfonodo pode ser considerada como a melhor amostra para diagnóstico molecular da infecção por L. infantum chagasi.

The objective of the present study was to determine the main lesions found during the sanitary inspection of the lungs of slaughtered pigs. The study was carried out at three slaughterhouses registered with the Pernambuco State Inspection System located in metropolitan Recife and the coastal zone of the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. A total of 715 pig lungs were inspected from July 2008 to May 2009. Pulmonary lesions were detected in all herds studied. Among the total number of animals evaluated, 43.8% (313/715) had some type of lung injury. Pneumonia was the most common finding, recorded in 93.0% (291/313) of damaged lungs, followed by petechial hemorrhaging (6.7%; 21/313) and blood aspiration (3.5%; 11/313). Among the lungs submitted to histopathology, the most frequent microscopic finding was granulomatous pneumonia with 32.2% (49/152), followed by 21.7% (33/152) of interstitial pneumonia and 3.2% (14/152) fibrinous bronchopneumonia. There was a significant association between the occurrence of lung lesions and all variables related to the environment in which the animals were raised as well as the type of operation and nutritional status.O trabalho foi realizado em três abatedouros inscritos no sistema de inspeção estadual, localizados na Região Metropolitana de Recife e Zona da Mata do estado de Pernambuco, Brasil. Foram inspecionados 715 pulmões de suínos, no período de julho de 2008 a maio de 2009. As lesões pulmonares foram detectadas em todos os plantéis estudados. Do total dos animais avaliados 43,8% (313/715) apresentaram algum tipo de lesão no pulmão. A pneumonia foi o tipo de lesão mais frequente, registrada em 93,0% (291/313) dos pulmões lesionados seguida de 6,7% (21/313) com hemorragias petequiais e 3,5% (11/313) de aspiração de sangue. Dentre os pulmões submetidos ao exame histopatológico, a lesão microscópica mais frequente foi a pneumonia granulomatosa com 32,2 (49/152), seguida de pneumonia intersticial com 21,7% (33/152) e broncopneumonia fibrinosa 3,2% (14/152). Observou-se associação significativa da ocorrência de lesão de pulmão com todas as variáveis relativas ao ambiente onde os animais são criados, além do tipo de exploração e estado nutricional.

White mullet is a commercial fish species abundant in the coastal waters of Brazil. This study investigated the occurrence of crustacean ectoparasites on white mullet, Mugil curema captured from the littoral waters of Rio Grande do Norte State, Brazil. From 2006 to 2007, 31 individuals of M. curema were captured and encountered ectoparasites were observed, identified and counted. M. curema was parasitized by ectoparasitic crustaceans, caligid copepods, Caligus bonito and Caligus sp.; ergasilid copepods, Ergasilus versicolor andE. lizae; and isopod Cymothoa spinipalpa. Of the caligids detected, 66.66% were C. bonito and 33.33% Caligus sp. C. bonito occurred on males of M. curema during the drought season and Caligus sp. occurred on females during the rainy season. The prevalence of both caligidspecies was 3.23%. Of the ergasilids detected, E. versicolor (91.67%) occurred during the drought and rainy seasons, whereas E. lizae (8.33%) occurred during the rainy season. Prevalence of E. versicolor was 35.48% and E. lizae was 3.23%. C. spinipalpa was detected during the drought and rainy seasons with a prevalence of 16.13%. The preferred site of fixation by the parasites was the branchial chambers.As tainhas são peixes marinhos de valor comercial, abundantes em águas costeiras brasileiras. O presente estudo investigou a ocorrência de crustáceos ectoparasitos na tainha, Mugil curema no litoral do Rio Grande do Norte. Foram capturados 31 exemplares de M. curema no período de março de 2006 a março de 2007 e os ectoparasitos encontrados foram coletados, observados, identificados e quantificados. M. curema foi parasitado por vários crustáceosectoparasitos: caligídeos: Caligus bonito e Caligus sp.; ergasilídeos: Ergasilus versicolor e E. lizae; e isópode Cymothoa spinipalpa. Dos caligídeos detectados 66,66% foi de C. bonito e 33,33% de Caligus sp. Caligus bonito ocorreu somente nos machos de M. curema durante a estação seca e Caligus sp. ocorreu somente nas fêmeas durante a estação de chuva. A prevalência de caligídeos foi 3,23%. Dos ergasilídeos detectados, E. versicolor (91,67%) ocorreu durante ambas as estações de chuva e seca, enquanto que E. lizae (8,33%) ocorreu somente durante a estação de chuva. A prevalência de E. versicolor foi 35,48% e de E. lizae foi 3,23%. Isópodo C. spinipalpa foi encontrado no período seco e de chuva com uma prevalência de 16,13%. O local de fixação preferido pelos parasitos copépodos e isópodos foi a câmara branquial do M. curema.

The present study was carried out in order to verify the presence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in goat and sheep farms located in different mesoregions within the State of Pernambuco – Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 1 64 goats and 1 24 sheep and submitted tothe indirect immunofluorescence technique. The results showed positive rates of 47.6% (78/1 64) and 48.4% (60/1 24) for goats and sheep, respectively. A significant difference of infection rates in the different regions was observed in both goats and sheep.

This work was carried out to compare the coproparasitological and necropsy exams for diagnosis of gastrointestinal helminth infection, evaluating the parasitism frequency in stray dogs captured by the Centro de Vigilância Ambiental of the city of Recife, Pernambuco. A total of 96 dogs of both sexes, with variying ages and races, were used. The animals were sacrificed and necropsied for the collection of adult helminthes. In parallel, fecal samples were collected directly from the rectum of the animals and processed using Willis’s technique and spontaneous sedimentation. The results obtained in the necropsy indicated a positivity of 96.8% (93∕96), being 83.3%, 34.4%, 30.2%, 28.1%, 14.6%, 6.3% and 2.1% for Ancylostoma caninum, Dypilidium caninum, Toxocara canis, Trichuris vulpis, Ancylostoma braziliense, Toxascaris leonina and Spirocerca lupi, respectively. Results from the Willis technique, sedimentation and necropsy were only significantly different (p

Este trabalho foi desenvolvido com o objetivo de comparar os exames coproparasitológicos e necroscópico para diagnóstico da infecção por helmintos gastrintestinais, avaliando a freqüência de parasitismo em cães errantes capturados pelo Centro de Vigilância Ambiental da Cidade de Recife – PE. Um total de 96 cães de ambos os sexos, idade e raça variadas foi utilizado. Os animais foram submetidos à eutanásia e necropsiados para coleta de helmintos adultos. Em paralelo foram coletadas amostras de fezes diretamente da ampola retal dos animais e processadas pela técnica de Willis e sedimentação espontânea. Os resultados obtidos na necropsia apontaram positividade de 96,8% (93 ∕ 96), sendo 83,3%, 34,4%, 30,2%, 28,1%, 14,6%, 6,3% e 2,1%, respectivamente para Ancylostoma caninum, Dypilidium caninum, Toxocara canis, Trichuris vulpis, Ancylostoma braziliense, Toxascaris leonina e Spirocerca lupi. Os métodos de Willis, sedimentação e necropsia foram significativamente diferentes entre si (p < 0,05) apenas na detecção de infecção por Ancylostoma spp. Willis e sedimentação não apresentaram diferenças entre si para os demais helmintos gastrintestinais.

The goal of this research was to analyze the ectoparasitic species from domestic cats in João Pessoa city, Paraíba state, Brazil. A total of 432 cats of various breeds and ages, of both genders, were included. All animals were submitted to physical and parasitological examination through skin inspection and an otoscopic exam was realized. Parasites were collected in vials containing 70% alcohol for subsequent mounting and identifi cation according to specific keys. The results showed that 62.7% (271/432) of animals were parasitized by one or more species. The ectoparasitic species observed were Ctenocephalides felis (27.3%), Lynxacarus radovskyi (26.2%), Otodectes cynotis (17.4%), Felicola subrostratus (9.7%), Notoedres cati (2.1%) and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (1.6%). The results showed that ectoparasites are a common and important skin disease in cats, and variables such breed, age, and sex did not show any influence on parasitism.

This study aimed to evaluate the survival possibility of the Lynxacarus radovskyi life cycle stages out of the host under laboratory conditions. Eggs, immature and adult forms of L. radovskyi were collected from cats naturally parasitized. The collected specimens were separated and put into plastic containers and into Durhan pipes, being submitted to room temperature and humidity, in the Parasitic Diseases of Domestic Animals Laboratory – DMV – UFRPE, and in climatic chamber at temperature of 27 ºC ± 1ºC and relative humidity > 70%, in scotophase, with and without cat hair supply as substrate to evaluate the survival capacity of the stages out of the host. There was a 100% hatch of the collected eggs, with larval survival within one to four days; the survival for the collected larvae was from one to five days. For all the experiment phases the nymphs presented bigger survival average than the other ones. In general, females survived more than males. The addition of hair provided a bigger survival to all the mite stages.

The objective of the present study was to investigate the histopathological alterations and detection of parasites that occur in the eyes of dogs naturally infected with Leishmania chagasi. The eyes of 25 dogs with a positive parasitological and serological exam for L. chagasi were submitted to routine ophthalmic examination. Fragments were obtained from the eyeball and were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and histopathology. Among the structures studied, the conjunctiva of the third eyelid was the tissue most frequently stained for L. chagasi. Histopathological analysis revealed a predominantly mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate whose intensity ranged from discrete to intense in the various ocular structures. Vascular congestion and perivasculitis were also observed. The histopathological alterations that occur in the eyeball of dogs with visceral leishmaniasis might be related to the presence of antibodies.O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar as alterações histopatológicas e a detecção do parasito nos olhos de cães naturalmente infectados por Leishmania chagasi. Utilizaram-se os olhos de 25 cães com exame parasitológico e sorológico positivo para Leishmania chagasi. Os animais foram submetidos à semiotécnica oftálmica rotineira. Fragmentos do globo ocular foram coletados e destinados à imunoistoquímica e histopatologia. Entre as estruturas avaliadas, a conjuntiva da terceira pálpebra foi a que mais demonstrou imunomarcação da Leishmania chagasi. Na avaliação histopatológica, foi observado predominantemente infiltrado inflamatório mononuclear, variando de discreto a intenso nas diversas estruturas oculares. Congestão vascular e perivasculite também foram observadas. As alterações histopatológicas do bulbo do olho em cães com leishmaniose visceral podem estar relacionadas à presença do anticorpo.

valiou-se a eficácia de produtos anti-helmínticos à base de moxidectina, ivermectina e albendazole em propriedades de criação caprina e ovina, localizadas em municípios pertencentes ao estado de Pernambuco. Os animais eram de ambos os sexos, idades e raças variadas, criados em sistema semi-intensivo e intensivo. A eficácia dos produtos foi avaliada pelo teste de redução do número de ovos por grama de fezes e calculada pela fórmula: %eficácia = 1- [(OPG médio pós-tratamento/OPG médio antes do tratamento)] x 100, indicando ineficácia com índice inferior a 95%. A moxidectina mostrou-se eficiente tanto em propriedade de criação caprina como ovina, a ivermectina apresentou melhor desempenho nos ovinos, enquanto o albendazole não foi eficaz para nenhuma das duas espécies. O gênero Haemonchus foi o mais prevalente nas coproculturas.PALAVRAS-CHAVES: Anti-helmíntico, caprino, ovino, Pernambuco, resistência. Anthelmintic products efficacy was evaluated within goat and sheep herds in municipalities belonging to the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. The animals were male and female of various ages and breeds, reared under semi-intensive and intensive system. The effectiveness of Moxidectin, ivermectin and albendazole drugs was detected using the fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT), calculated by the formula: %efficacy = 1 - [(Mean FEC post-treatment/Mean FEC pre-treatment)] x 100, indicating inefficiency with index lower than 95%. Moxidectin was efficient in sheep and goat herds, ivermectin showed better performance in sheep, while albendazole was not effective for either species. Haemonchus sp. was the most prevalent in larval culture.KEY WORDS: Anthelmintic, caprine, ovine, Pernambuco-Brasil, resistence, sheep.

The metropolitan region of Recife, Brazil is endemic for Dirofilaria immitis and has an environment favorable to the development of Culex quinquefasciatus. The goal of this study was to evaluate the vector competence of the Cx. quinquefasciatus RECIFE population for D. immitis transmission. A total of 2,104 females of Cx. quinquefasciatus RECIFE population were exposed to different densities of D. immitis microfilariae blood meals, ranging from 1,820 to 2,900 mf/ml of blood, in a natural membrane apparatus. The results showed a variation between 92.3% and 98.8% of females fed. The exposure of the Cx. quinquefasciatus RECIFE population to different densities of microfilariae did not influence the mortality of the mosquitoes. Infective larvae from D. immitis were observed in the Malpighian tubules beginning on the 12th day, whereas larvae were observed in the head and proboscis beginning on the 13th day following infection. The vector efficiency index (VEI) presented by the mosquitoes ranged from 7.8 to 56.5. The data demonstrates that the Cx. quinquefasciatus RECIFE population has great potential for the transmission of D. immitis, as it allowed the development of the filarid until the infectious stage at the different densities of microfilariae to which it was exposed.A Região Metropolitana do Recife é endêmica para Dirofilaria immitis e possui ambiente favorável para o desenvolvimento de Culex quinquefasciatus. Neste estudo avaliou-se a competência vetorial de Cx. quinquefasciatus população RECIFE para a transmissão de D. immitis. Para tanto, 2.104 fêmeas de Cx. quinquefasciatus população RECIFE foram expostas a diferentes densidades de microfilárias de D. immitis, variando de 1.820 a 2.900 mf/ml de sangue por meio de membrana natural. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram variação de 92,3% a 98,8% de fêmeas ingurgitadas após a alimentação. A exposição de Cx. quinquefasciatus população RECIFE a diferentes densidades de microfilárias não influenciou na mortalidade dos mosquitos. Larvas infectantes de D. immitis foram observadas nos túbulos de Malpighi a partir do 12º dia, enquanto na cabeça e na probóscide foram observadas a partir do 13º dia após a infecção. Os índices de eficiência vetorial (IEV) apresentados pelo culicídeo variaram de 7,8 a 56,5. Os dados obtidos demonstraram que Cx. quinquefasciatus população RECIFE tem grande potencial para a transmissão de D. immitis, pois permitiu o desenvolvimento do filarídeo até o estágio infectante nas diferentes densidades de microfilárias às quais foi exposto.

The apicomplexa protozoa Cryptosporidium infects several mammals, including terrestrial and aquatic species. In the epidemiology of this infection, the ingestion of water and/or food contamined with oocysts comprises the main mechanism of transmission to susceptible animals. Among the Sirenians, the occurrence of this coccidium has been reported in dugongs (Dugong dugon) and Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus). The present study was conducted with the aim of verifying the occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in Amazonian manatee. For this purpose, fecal samples were collected from ten free-ranging Amazonian manatees, two specimens in captivity, and 103 supernatants fecal samples. The samples were processed by the sedimentation method in formol-ether and Kinyoun stain technique for the presence of Cryptosporidium spp.. The positive samples were then submitted to Direct Immunoflorescence Test. The results showed 4.34% (05/115) of positive samples. This is the first report of Cryptosporidium spp. in the Amazonian manatee.

The goal of this research was to verify the occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts in the water consumption and supply of pools used by Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus) in captivity. Six samples were collected from the pool's supply system (at the beach), water used for manatee consumption, mineral water used in the preparation of artificial milk formulas offered to orphan manatee calves, also used in permanent maintenance pools in the visitation area, and water utilized in the rehabilitation area, where calves of all ages were kept. Before the water samples were processed, each sample was submitted to a filtration process. The diagnosis of the parasite was obtained by Kinyoun technique and the positive samples were submitted to the Direct Immunoflorescence Test. The results showed the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts in 66.67% (4/6) of the samples from the water supply system and pool, with eight to 56 oocysts per liter. There was evidence that the water used in the maintenance of the Antillean manatees could be an important medium for hydric transmission of Cryptosporidium spp. and that it may be a predisposing factor to the occurrence of cryptosporidiosis in Antillean manatees in captivity.

Neospora caninum infection is an important cause of bovine abortion as well as neonatal mortality in goats and sheep. A serological survey for antibodies against N. caninum in goats and sheep was carried out in the municipality of Ibimirim, PE, Northeastern Brazil. The imunnofluoresce antibody test showed that 26.6% (85/319) of the goats and 64.2% (52/81) of the sheep were positive. Serologic reactivity was associated with age in goats (p < 0.01) and sheep (p > 0.05), with increasing rates in older animals. These results indicate exposure to N. caninum among small ruminants in the study area.A infecção por Neospora caninum é uma importante causa de abortos em bovinos, assim como mortalidade neonatal em caprinos e ovinos. Uma pesquisa sorológica de anticorpos anti-N. caninum foi realizada no município de Ibimirim (PE, Brasil). Os resultados ao teste de imunofluorescência revelaram que 26,6% (85/319) dos caprinos e 64,2% (52/81) dos ovinos foram positivos. A reatividade à sorologia foi associada com a idade nos caprinos (p < 0,01) e ovinos (p > 0,05), com maior ocorrência nos animais mais velhos. Estes resultados indicam exposição a N. caninum entre pequenos ruminantes na área estudada.

Six hundred and eleven random-source dogs (338 male, 273 female) one year of age or older, from six sections of the city of Recife, Pernambuco, were examined antemortem for circulating microfilariae Dirofilaria immitis and Dipetalonema reconditum adult heartworm (D. immitis) antigen, and examined postmortem for adult heartworms. The prevalence of heartworm infection was 2.3% (14/611), as determined by necropsy for adult worms, and 1% (6/611) had circulating microfilariae of D. immitis; thus, 57.1% of the heartworm-infected dogs had occult infections. The results of serological testing indicated that 1.3% (8/611) of the dogs were positive for adult heartworm antigen. A total of 42 (6.9%) of the dogs had microfilariae of D. reconditum; 40 of these had only D. reconditum and two additional dogs had microfilariae of both species, D. immitis and D. reconditum.

White mullet is a commercial fish species abundant in the coastal waters of Brazil. This study investigated the occurrence of crustacean ectoparasites on white mullet, Mugil curema captured from the littoral waters of Rio Grande do Norte State, Brazil. From 2006 to 2007, 31 individuals of M. curema were captured and encountered ectoparasites were observed, identified and counted. M. curema was parasitized by ectoparasitic crustaceans, caligid copepods, Caligus bonito and Caligus sp.; ergasilid copepods, Ergasilus versicolor and E. lizae; and isopod Cymothoa spinipalpa. Of the caligids detected, 66.66% were C. bonito and 33.33% Caligus sp. C. bonito occurred on males of M. curema during the drought season and Caligus sp. occurred on females during the rainy season. The prevalence of both caligid species was 3.23%. Of the ergasilids detected, E. versicolor (91.67%) occurred during the drought and rainy seasons, whereas E. lizae (8.33%) occurred during the rainy season. Prevalence of E. versicolor was 35.48% and E. lizae was 3.23%. C. spinipalpa was detected during the drought and rainy seasons with a prevalence of 16.13%. The preferred site of fixation by the parasites was the branchial chambers.

Introduction: Little information is available concerning infection by Leishmania infantum in cats. Therefore, the aim of this study was to perform a serological study in domestic cats. Methods: Serum samples (n=153) obtained from animals living in the Cities of Recife and Petrolina, State of Pernambuco, Brazil, were tested by ELISA/S7® (Biogene). Results: Anti-L. infantum antibodies were detected in 3.9% (6/153) of the cats. All seroreagent animals were from Petrolina. Conclusions: These results serve as an important alert, and future studies are needed to better understand the possible role of cats in the epidemiology of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in this area.

valiou-se a eficácia de produtos anti-helmínticos à base de moxidectina, ivermectina e albendazole em propriedades de criação caprina e ovina, localizadas em municípios pertencentes ao estado de Pernambuco. Os animais eram de ambos os sexos, idades e raças variadas, criados em sistema semi-intensivo e intensivo. A eficácia dos produtos foi avaliada pelo teste de redução do número de ovos por grama de fezes e calculada pela fórmula: %eficácia = 1- [(OPG médio pós-tratamento/OPG médio antes do tratamento)] x 100, indicando ineficácia com índice inferior a 95%. A moxidectina mostrou-se eficiente tanto em propriedade de criação caprina como ovina, a ivermectina apresentou melhor desempenho nos ovinos, enquanto o albendazole não foi eficaz para nenhuma das duas espécies. O gênero Haemonchus foi o mais prevalente nas coproculturas. PALAVRAS-CHAVES: Anti-helmíntico, caprino, ovino, Pernambuco, resistência.

INTRODUCTION: The northeast region of Brazil is endemic for zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis (ZVL). The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of infection in dogs in Petrolina. METHODS: Blood samples were collected from dogs (n = 600), and bone-marrow biopsy was performed in animals with positive serological test results that presented clinical signs of ZVL. The serological analyses were performed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) (S7(r)Biogene). RESULTS: Of the 600 dogs tested, 19% (115/600) presented anti-L. infantum chagasi antibodies. CONCLUSIONS: Our data are important because canine infection is an important risk factor for the human disease.

INTRODUÇÃO: Os ixodídeos pertencentes ao gênero Amblyomma são encontrados no Brasil, sendo de grande importância em Saúde Pública por representarem risco na transmissão de patógenos. MÉTODOS: Este trabalho relata um caso de parasitismo em humano por Amblyomma sp, ocorrido na Cidade de Recife, Pernambuco. RESULTADOS: O parasitismo foi observado em uma senhora onde os ectoparasitos encontravam-se fixados em suas pernas e pés. CONCLUSÕES: Este tipo de achado é incomum e constitui o primeiro relato do parasitismo em humano por Amblyomma sp, no Estado de Pernambuco.INTRODUCTION: The Amblyomma genus is widely distribution in Brazil and is important regarding the public health risk represented by the transmission of pathogens. METHODS: This paper reports a case of parasitism in humans by Amblyomma sp that occurred in the City of Recife, State of Pernambuco. RESULTS: Parasitism was observed in a woman where the ticks were attached to her legs and feet. CONCLUSIONS: This finding is unusual and is the first report of parasitism in humans by Amblyomma sp in State of Pernambuco.